The temptation to draw comparisons between Cherubim’s handmade bicycles and katana, one of the swords used by the samurai of feudal Japan, can’t be ignored — they both share the same philosophies of spirit and manufacture.

Shin-Ichi Konno is often called out for the apparent non-functionality of his show bikes, but the second generation frame builder is also known for his contemporary steel road racers and traditional tourers. The R2 is a culmination of eras: A modern speed machine constructed with artisanal polished and thinned lugged construction.